Although the La Liga giants would loathe to lose another of their starting midfielders, Saul's unique contract means the Spanish club don't actually own a portion of their own player.

BETTER CALL SAUL

According to Football Leaks discoveries, Quality Sports Investments – headed up by super agent Jorge Mendes and former United chief executive Peter Kenyon – paid over £1m for 40% of his transfer rights when the Spaniard was just 16.

The report states that Los Rojiblancos are obliged to inform the Irish-based company about any offer for Saul, including who it came from.

IF Quality Football want the transfer but the 24-year-old doesn't, then their 40% stake is returned to Atletico who must then compensate them for what they would have made from the deal.

The Spanish international is tied down at the Wanda Metropolitano until 2026 but he does have a £135m release clause.